Latest news with #ArvedvonzurMuehlen


Coin Geek
4 hours ago
- Business
- Coin Geek
Saudia airlines pivots to order-based system in aviation
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... Saudi Arabia's national carrier, Saudia, has taken a leap forward in improving personalization capabilities for airline customers by leveraging next-generation technological advancements. According to a report, the airline is leaning on innovation from global travel technology company Amadeus to introduce a guest-centric approach toward digitization. Saudia is pivoting from traditional booking systems relying on PNRs and other electronic data to a single, dynamic record. The new system, Order, is designed to provide a robust record of all payments made by an airline passenger, allowing Saudia to offer improved services across all verticals. The system tracks consumer actions from ordering to payments, all the way to service delivery for travelers. Leveraging the new Amadeus Nexus environment, the system introduces new perks, including tailored pricing and personalized offers to customers. Following the introduction of the new system, Saudia will offer hand-picked cabins and a raft of customized services to guests in real-time. 'Moving to single Orders means we can gain a better understanding of our guests, what they've purchased from us, and our partners across the entire journey,' said Saudia Chief Commercial Officer Arved von zur Muehlen. 'Orders are the foundation for a more connected travel experience.' Executives note that the transition did not disrupt any existing airline processes, with parties pointing to Amadeus Smart's bridging capabilities. Going forward, Saudia is ditching the legacy Amadeus Altea Passenger Service System (PSS) for a new data-driven model with consumers at the heart of the change. 'Moving to Orders with smart bridging is an important milestone that lays the foundation for a whole host of new traveler-centric capabilities,' said Amadeus executive Maher Koubaa. While Amadeus Nevio does not mention blockchain technology, its artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud-native functionalities are considered state-of-the-art. Airlines are embracing emerging technologies Airlines are at the forefront of integrating emerging technologies into their existing operations. TCS has struck a partnership with Kuwait's Jazeera Airways to expand the airline's digital capabilities to personalized customer experiences and introduce new revenue streams. Etihad Airways is turning to AI for flight safety protocols, while Air Arabia is turning to blockchain for tokenization functionalities. AirAsia led the industry in blockchain-based travel rewards, while the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority is integrating distributed ledgers to minimize flight delays and offer transparent luggage handling and tracking. Air Astana inks collaboration deal with flydocs for wholesale digital transformation Kazakhstan's national carrier, Air Astana, has signed a partnership with aviation asset management solution provider flydocs for robust digitization across its value chain. The partnership will introduce a state-of-the-art digital records management (DRM) solution for Air Astana that is in line with its digitization goals. The incoming wave of DRM solutions will apply to Air Astana's fleet of over 60 aircraft. Per the agreement, flydocs will introduce its proprietary software with Air Astana's maintenance and engineering (M&E) systems and its passenger booking and travel records (PNRs). Flowing from the integration, Air Astana is primed to enjoy the perks of smart retrievals and advanced search functionalities while improving the scope of predictive maintenance. flydocs' functionalities will extend to fraud detection in booking processes while improving compliance standards with regulatory authorities. Furthermore, it introduces tamper-proof ledgers for maintenance records, luggage handling, passenger records, and other audit trails. Air Astana has signaled a keen intent to embrace emerging technologies to keep pace with other regional carriers amid a changing technology landscape. The airline is focusing on digital transformation to introduce operational efficiency and sustainability to its workflows. Pratap Shetty, Air Astana's Director of IT Operations and Engineering Systems, revealed that partnering with flydocs was an easy choice for the airline. For starters, Shetty points to flydocs' track record in digitizing airlines, highlighting its 75 global clients and innovative streak. Air Astana's digitization push follows Kazakhstan's recent embrace of next-gen technologies. Kazakhstan aims to become a digital asset hub in Central Asia while targeting the launch of a digital asset bank. Furthermore, there are plans to explore public sector AI applications in the country amid an adoption trend by Kazakhstan-based private enterprises. Aviation ramps up its adoption pace The aviation sector has always been innovating, with leading global airlines integrating emerging technologies into their operations. TCS has entered into a five-year partnership with Air New Zealand for a raft of AI-powered functionalities. 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Tourism Breaking News
6 days ago
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
SAUDIA moves to orders with Amadeus Nevio to accelerate guest-centric travel
Post Views: 51 SAUDIA has taken a step forward in its digital transformation journey by moving to more guest-centric operations by translating traditional booking records (PNRs) and electronic tickets into Orders. This paves the way for a more personalized and smooth travel experience. An Order is a single, dynamic record of everything the traveler has purchased for their journey. It provides a real-time, consolidated view of all services, enabling the airline to better serve the traveler at every touchpoint – from booking and payment to fulfillment and servicing. By adopting Order capabilities, SAUDIA is fast-tracking its ability to deliver more flexible offers, tailor-made pricing, and fully digital servicing. This transformation marks a foundational step in the airline's broader ambition to redefine guest experience and operational agility through data-driven retailing. The milestone was achieved using Amadeus' smart bridging capabilities, which translate traditional records from SAUDIA's existing Amadeus Altéa Passenger Service System (PSS) into single order records in its new Amadeus Nevio environment. Performing Smart bridging means SAUDIA can begin to operate with orders, accelerating the benefits of the airline retailing transformation in the new Amadeus Nevio environment for its guests while ensuring business continuity with existing traditional infrastructure. 'SAUDIA is committed to delivering the highest standard of guest experience and technology innovation is crucial to this objective. Moving to single Orders means we can gain a better understanding of our guests, what they've purchased from us, and our partners across the entire journey. Orders are the foundation for a more connected travel experience.' Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer, SAUDIA, 'SAUDIA is one of the airlines leading the industry with its ambitious transformation program. Moving to Orders with smart bridging is an important milestone that lays the foundation for a whole host of new traveler‑centric capabilities. We're delighted to support SAUDIA's continued innovation in airline retailing.' Maher Koubaa, Executive Vice President, EMEA Travel unit, Amadeus. Teams from Amadeus and SAUDIA continue to work closely together in joint innovation centers to ensure the airline maximizes the potential of the transformation to new retailing concepts and technology.


Zawya
14-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudia and almatar partner to launch smart post-arrival services for corporate travelers
Jeddah: Saudia, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has announced a strategic partnership with almatar, a leading travel-tech platform, to introduce a new suite of smart post-arrival services designed to enhance the corporate travel experience across the Kingdom. The agreement was signed by Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer at Saudia, and Abdulelah AlMehdar, Managing Director of Aamal & Flights at almatar. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering integrated and innovative solutions that support the evolving needs of business travelers. Through this collaboration, travelers using HR systems such as ZenHR and Kayan HR will be able to access a range of personalized post-arrival services via the almatar platform. These include tailored hospitality offers, extended stay options, and ground transport solutions, all seamlessly integrated with company travel policies and employee profiles to ensure a streamlined and efficient journey from arrival onwards. Arved von zur Muehlen stated: 'Our collaboration with almatar reflects our ongoing commitment to redefining the travel experience for our guests. By introducing smart, integrated post-arrival services tailored to the needs of business travelers, we are enhancing convenience, efficiency, and value across every touchpoint. It also reinforces Saudia's role as a key enabler of digital innovation.' Faisal Alrajhi, CEO of almatar, said: 'This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to innovation. We're not just selling tickets; we're building a smarter ecosystem that enhances the traveler's experience even beyond arrival.' This initiative forms part of Saudia's wider digital transformation strategy and supports the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Aviation Strategy, particularly in enhancing business travel, advancing technology-led services, and strengthening Saudi Arabia's position as a global hub for tourism, logistics, and enterprise. -Ends- About Saudia: Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East's largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleet with 148 aircraft. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World's Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has also been awarded the "World Class Airline 2024" for the third consecutive year at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards. Additionally, also ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit About almatar: almatar is one of the most advanced and trusted travel platforms in the Middle East, serving millions of users across both B2C and B2B segments. From flight bookings and hotel stays to travel insurance and enterprise-level travel management, almatar delivers a seamless, tech-driven experience rooted in innovation and customer-centricity. With continuous investment in digital infrastructure and a strong focus on localized solutions, almatar is shaping the future of smart travel — from Saudi Arabia to the world.

Associated Press
30-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
WestJet and Saudia announce interline agreement unlocking enhanced international connectivity to more than 100 destinations
WestJet guests to gain single-connection access to multiple points in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the first time CALGARY, AB, June 30, 2025 /CNW/ - WestJet today announced a new interline partnership agreement with Saudia, significantly enhancing global connectivity across both carriers' networks. The agreement includes single-connection access to Jeddah via Toronto Pearson as well as both Jeddah and Riyadh from London Heathrow and Paris Charles-de-Gaulle. 'An interline partnership with Saudia marks a major step forward in expanding global connectivity for our guests,' said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. 'This agreement not only provides WestJet guests with seamless single-connection access to Saudia's extensive global network but also strengthens inbound tourism and business links. Together, WestJet and Saudia are creating more convenient and diverse travel options for guests on both sides, fostering stronger connections and collaboration across continents.' Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer at Saudia, said, 'We value the partnership with WestJet, it reflects Saudia's commitment to offer our guests more destinations through key international gateways. Canada is now closer than ever, and we are also offering a seamless journey for travellers from Canada to explore Saudi Arabia and experience its unique culture, heritage, and hospitality.' The agreement was signed by Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer at Saudia, and John Weatherill, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer at WestJet. Guests can now book a single ticket with a connected itinerary between WestJet and Saudia's networks with single point check-in and through-checked bags. Bookings will be available through a travel agent or third-party ticket sales websites. About WestJet WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada's leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians. Learn more about WestJet at (also available in French) Follow WestJet on Facebook at Follow WestJet on X at and Follow WestJet on Instagram at Subscribe to WestJet on YouTube at SOURCE WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership


Cision Canada
30-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
WestJet and Saudia announce interline agreement unlocking enhanced international connectivity to more than 100 destinations Français
WestJet guests to gain single-connection access to multiple points in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the first time CALGARY, AB, June 30, 2025 /CNW/ - WestJet today announced a new interline partnership agreement with Saudia, significantly enhancing global connectivity across both carriers' networks. The agreement includes single-connection access to Jeddah via Toronto Pearson as well as both Jeddah and Riyadh from London Heathrow and Paris Charles-de-Gaulle. "An interline partnership with Saudia marks a major step forward in expanding global connectivity for our guests," said John Weatherill, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer. "This agreement not only provides WestJet guests with seamless single-connection access to Saudia's extensive global network but also strengthens inbound tourism and business links. Together, WestJet and Saudia are creating more convenient and diverse travel options for guests on both sides, fostering stronger connections and collaboration across continents." Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer at Saudia, said, "We value the partnership with WestJet, it reflects Saudia's commitment to offer our guests more destinations through key international gateways. Canada is now closer than ever, and we are also offering a seamless journey for travellers from Canada to explore Saudi Arabia and experience its unique culture, heritage, and hospitality." The agreement was signed by Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer at Saudia, and John Weatherill, Executive Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer at WestJet. Guests can now book a single ticket with a connected itinerary between WestJet and Saudia's networks with single point check-in and through-checked bags. Bookings will be available through a travel agent or third-party ticket sales websites. About WestJet WestJet took to the skies in 1996 with just over 200 employees and three aircraft operating service to five destinations. Since then, WestJet has pioneered low-cost travel in Canada, cutting airfares in half, and increasing the flying population in Canada by more than 50 per cent. Following integration with Sunwing in 2025, more than 14,000 WestJetters support nearly 200 aircraft and connect guests to more than 100 destinations across North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe and Asia. As a major Canadian employer that includes WestJet Airlines, Sunwing Vacations Group and WestJet Cargo, the WestJet Group is Canada's leading low-cost airline and largest vacation provider, with a united purpose of providing affordable and accessible air and vacation travel to Canadians. Learn more about WestJet at (also available in French)